Exciting News for Health Education in Greenville, S.C.
Greenville, S.C. – The future of healthcare education is looking bright, especially for students in Laurens County. Prisma Health, a leader in healthcare, has stepped up with a generous $1 million investment to the Piedmont Technical College (PTC) Foundation. This significant contribution is aimed at boosting access to nursing education and health sciences training right on the PTC Laurens County campus.
This initiative couldn’t come at a better time. With the ongoing challenges of nursing and healthcare professional shortages in Laurens County and the surrounding areas, Prisma Health’s commitment is like a breath of fresh air. The investment is not just about numbers; it’s about strengthening a workforce pipeline that will ultimately benefit our entire community. Plans for this exciting three-year program will unfold in detail on Wednesday, Sept. 11, during the “Maximizing Our Future Upstate Summit” at the Greenville Convention Center.
A Partnership for Growth
“This partnership underscores our shared commitment to enhancing healthcare education in Laurens County,” said Dr. Hope E. Rivers, president of PTC. With Prisma Health’s support, more students will have the opportunity to build their foundational knowledge, paving the way for their future growth and success.
Prisma Health’s Chief Executive Officer, Justin M. Benfield, echoed this enthusiasm. He stated, “Investing in nursing and health science education is an investment in the future health of our community.” His vision includes working closely with educators to create innovative learning environments that prepare students for real-world scenarios.
A Closer Look at the Program
The funding will not only aid in operational aspects but will also allow PTC to expand its nursing program significantly. The Prisma Health Laurens Nursing Ladder Initiative offers students a clear pathway to success. Participants can complete various credentials, ultimately culminating in an Associate Degree in Nursing. Here’s a quick overview of the ladder:
- Patient Care Technician (PCT) – One semester
- Practical Nursing (PN) – Three semesters
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Moreover, Prisma Health’s contribution will lead to the addition of three new staff positions and necessary facility updates at the PTC Laurens County Campus, with completion expected by late 2025. These upgrades will focus on creating learning spaces that simulate real-world clinical and lab environments, making the students’ learning experience even more immersive.
Initial projections estimate that the program will enroll up to 60 students per year within the first three years, paving the way for more healthcare professionals in the region. Additionally, this expansion will enhance training opportunities in other healthcare-related certificate programs, including radiology technician, lab technician, ultrasound, and medical assistants.
Community Impact
Local healthcare leaders are thrilled about this collaborative effort. Jennifer Rogers, the chief nursing officer for Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, described the partnership as a tremendous win for the community. She emphasized the benefits for prospective students as well as current team members looking to advance their careers locally.
And there’s a broader motive behind this investment. According to a report from the federal Health Services Administration, South Carolina is predicted to face the seventh-largest shortage of registered nurses in the nation by 2036. This partnership directly addresses that alarming projection, expanding educational opportunities and producing more qualified nursing professionals for our area.
Overall, this initiative is a promising development not just for those looking to enter the healthcare field but also for enhancing the overall quality of patient care in Laurens County and beyond. This collaborative spirit between Prisma Health and PTC signifies a hopeful path forward as they work together to cultivate the next generation of healthcare leaders.
